Legislature, Snowstorm Arrive In Helena

HELENA -- Some lucky legislators made their way to Helena before the snowstorm hit last weekend. The 64th Montana Legislature opened for session on Monday, Jan. 5. Most senators and representatives could be seen moving into their offices or chatting with fellow comrades around the state capitol Monday.

New representatives were sworn into office around noon. Sen. John Brenden of Scobey had a few minutes to chat with The Courier. He explained that he was lucky to make it into Helena on Friday before the snow arrived. The streets were treacherous and the snowfall continued throughout the day. Brenden said he wouldn't have been surprised if some legislators were absent until the roads cleared.

Committees began their discussions on Tuesday and there was clearly a buzz as everyone prepared to get down to business. Montana citizens will probably take note of several bills that could impact business, education and more. This week legislators were scheduled to discuss taxation, the budget, and education.

Speaker of the House Austin Knudsen said that things would probably run smoothly the first few weeks, with only a rule in the House that could bring some contentious discussion this week. He said that most likely only the major political junkies would be paying attention to that detail.

Some of the shorter term issues he said to watch for was an income tax cut that would go across the board. Knudsen said he wanted to get through that early on. Both Brenden and Knudsen commented that the infrastructure bill might be an adventure as the proposed bill has funding bonded out. Something that the conservatives might not approve as borrowing money isn't a preference. As the first few weeks will be focused on organization and getting things on track there might not be a lot going on just yet. But it's bound to be a busy legislative session this year.

"By week three things should start heating up," Knudsen said.